# GTU Sem 5 Professional Ethics (PE) Winter 2021 paper solutions | 3150709

Q1

(a) Enlist at least four characteristics of quality of working life. How alternate work schedules helps to improvise and achieve standard quality of working life?

• Job Security: Stable employment where workers feel secure about their role and future in the organization.
• Safe Work Environment: Ensuring physical safety and health standards in the workplace.
• Opportunities for Growth: Provision for career advancement, skill development, and learning opportunities.
• Work-Life Balance: Achieving a balance between work responsibilities and personal life.

(b) Define Engineering Ethics. Distinguish between ethics, laws and morals

• Engineering Ethics: A set of moral principles and professional standards guiding the conduct of engineers.
• Ethics vs. Laws: Ethics are moral guidelines, whereas laws are formal, legal rules enforceable by the state.
• Ethics vs. Morals: Ethics often refer to rules provided by an external source, e.g., codes of conduct in workplaces, while morals usually refer to an individual’s own principles regarding right and wrong.
• Difference: Ethics are context-specific (like in a professional setting), while morals are more personal and generalized.

(c) Mention the need for businesses to act ethically.

• Trust Building: Ethical conduct builds trust among stakeholders, including customers, employees, and investors, which is crucial for long-term success.
• Reputation Management: Ethical practices enhance a company's reputation, attracting customers, talent, and investors.
• Legal Compliance: Acting ethically ensures compliance with laws and regulations, avoiding legal penalties and fines.
• Employee Morale and Retention: Ethical treatment of employees leads to higher morale, better engagement, and lower turnover rates.
• Long-Term Profitability: While unethical practices might offer short-term gains, ethical behavior ensures sustainable and long-term profitability.
• Corporate Responsibility: Ethical business practices demonstrate responsibility towards society, contributing to social welfare and environmental sustainability.
• Risk Management: Ethical practices help in identifying and managing risks, preventing crises that can arise from unethical decisions.

Q2

(a) Justify: “Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder and thus one must accept the way it is” correlates the law of humility of karma

• Subjectivity of Perception: The statement highlights the subjective nature of beauty, similar to the Law of Humility which suggests that our understanding of life is limited to our perception.
• Acceptance of Reality: Both emphasize accepting things as they are, acknowledging that our perspectives or judgments are not absolute truths.
• Humility in Understanding: The quote and the law both encourage humility in acknowledging that what we perceive is influenced by our personal biases and limitations.

(b) Generalize your views over incorporation of Bhagwat Gita’s moral values and ethics into one’s work life?

• Duty and Responsibility: Emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one’s duties and responsibilities without attachment to personal gains.
• Self-Control and Discipline: Advocating for self-regulation and discipline in thoughts and actions, crucial for professional integrity.
• Detachment from Results: Focusing on actions rather than being overly concerned with outcomes, promoting resilience and ethical decision-making.
• Harmony and Teamwork: Encouraging working harmoniously with others, respecting diversity, and understanding the interconnectedness of all actions.

(c) Presume that pawan is a senior officer working for cyber security agency. He comes to know that his junior officer has been a victim of honey trapping through social media. In all of this, his phone was hacked and confidential files were leaked. The entire department has come together and wants pawan to take strict actions against junior officer for his behavior. That junior officer is highly skilled and is an asset to organization. He is also close to pawan as he had mentored him throughout and respects him a lot. Moreover, any action against him might attract media attention and bring a bad repute to the entire organization at large.

i. What are the ethical issues involved and options available to pawan in such a situation?

i. Ethical Issues and Options

• Confidentiality Breach: The leak of sensitive information raises serious concerns about organizational security and integrity.
• Responsibility and Accountability: Balancing the accountability of the junior officer for his actions against his value to the organization.
• Personal Bias: Pawan's personal relationship with the junior officer might influence his decision-making.
• Organizational Reputation: Considering the impact of this incident on the organization's public image.
• Legal and Ethical Obligations: Weighing the legal implications of the breach against ethical considerations of fairness and justice.

Options Available to Pawan:

1. Strict disciplinary action, including possible termination.
2. A more lenient approach, focusing on rehabilitation and additional training.
3. Investigating the incident thoroughly to understand the extent of the breach and responsibility.

ii. Suggest a course of action that pawan would take to resolve it.

Suggested Course of Action

• Thorough Investigation: Firstly, conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the full extent of the breach and the junior officer’s involvement.
• Balanced Response: Implement a balanced approach that includes appropriate disciplinary action but also considers the junior officer’s past contributions and potential for rehabilitation.
• Confidential Handling: Manage the situation confidentially to mitigate negative publicity and maintain organizational reputation.
• Preventive Measures: Strengthen cybersecurity measures and training within the organization to prevent future incidents.
• Support and Monitoring: Provide support to the junior officer for professional development while ensuring close monitoring of his activities to regain trust.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure all actions comply with legal requirements and organizational policies.
• Transparent Communication: Maintain transparent communication within the organization about the measures taken to address the breach and prevent future occurrences.

OR

(c) Mention the business ethics in Islam keeping into context the indian ethical traditions.

Business Ethics in Islam with Context to Indian Ethical Traditions

1. Honesty and Truthfulness: Islam emphasizes honesty in business dealings, resonating with Indian ethical traditions like Satya (truthfulness) in Hinduism and Jainism.
2. Fair Dealings and Justice: Islamic business ethics insist on fair transactions, aligning with the Indian concept of Dharma, which advocates for righteousness and justice in all aspects of life.
3. Prohibition of Exploitation and Fraud: Both Islamic and Indian traditions condemn exploitation and fraudulent practices. Islam strictly forbids Riba (usury), while Indian traditions emphasize fair pricing and ethical conduct.
4. Respect for Labor and Fair Compensation: Islam respects labor rights and mandates fair compensation, paralleling with Indian ethical values which emphasize the dignity of labor and the importance of just remuneration, as seen in the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and various Indian scriptures.
5. Charitable Actions and Social Responsibility: Zakat (charitable giving) in Islam and the concept of Daan (charity) in Indian traditions both highlight the importance of social responsibility and aiding those in need.
6. Environmental Stewardship: Islamic teachings on the conservation of natural resources and environmental protection find echoes in Indian traditions, which often view nature as sacred and emphasize living in harmony with the environment.
7. Ethical Decision Making: Both Islamic and Indian ethical traditions encourage decisions based on moral values and the greater good, rather than solely on profit or personal gain. This includes the Indian concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) which promotes harmlessness in action and thought.

Q3

(a) Mention principles of professional ethics.

Principles of Professional Ethics:

• Integrity: Maintaining honesty and strong moral principles.
• Responsibility: Being accountable for one’s actions and decisions.
• Respect: Treating colleagues and clients with respect and dignity.

(b) Provide some appropriate ways for creating an ethical working environment.

• Code of Ethics: Implementing a clear code of ethics for guidance.
• Ethical Training: Providing regular training on ethical practices and decision-making.
• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about ethical issues and concerns.
• Leadership Example: Leaders demonstrating ethical behavior in their actions.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing systems for reporting unethical conduct without fear of retribution.
• Rewarding Ethical Behavior: Recognizing and rewarding employees for ethical conduct.

(c) Discuss at least seven notable features of ancient Indian education system.

Features of Ancient Indian Education System

1. Gurukul System: Education was imparted in Gurukuls, where students lived with the teacher (Guru).
2. Holistic Learning: Focus on physical, mental, and spiritual development.
3. Customized Learning: Education was tailored to individual student's aptitude and interests.
4. Oral Tradition: Emphasis on oral learning and memorization of texts.
5. Value-Based Education: Education included teachings on values, ethics, and moral living.
6. Discipline and Yoga: Importance of discipline, yoga, and meditation in daily routine.
7. Integrated Sciences and Arts: Studies included various sciences, arts, literature, and philosophy.

OR

Q.3 (a) Mention principles of personal ethics.

Principles of Personal Ethics

• Honesty: Being truthful and transparent in actions and communication.
• Respect: Showing consideration and understanding towards others.
• Responsibility: Taking accountability for one's actions and decisions.

(b) Describe how failure of personal character can be considered as one of the sources of ethical problems stating one real life scenario.

Failure of Personal Character as a Source of Ethical Problems

• Selfishness: Putting personal gain over ethical considerations.
  • Real-Life Scenario: A business leader embezzling funds for personal benefit, compromising the financial stability of the company and betraying stakeholder trust.
• Lack of Integrity: Failing to adhere to moral principles.
  • Real-Life Scenario: A journalist fabricating stories to gain fame, leading to misinformation and loss of credibility in media.
• Inability to Empathize: Ignoring the impact of actions on others.
  • Real-Life Scenario: A politician using divisive language for political gain, causing societal unrest and discrimination.
• Short-Term Focus: Overlooking long-term consequences for immediate benefits.
  • Real-Life Scenario: A scientist falsifying research data for quick academic recognition, jeopardizing scientific integrity and public trust.

(c) Briefly describe three two laws of karma by providing appropriate examples

1. Law of Cause and Effect (Karma Phala):
   • Principle: This law states that for every action, there is an equal and corresponding reaction. It implies that good deeds lead to positive results, while negative actions bring unfavorable consequences.
   • Personal Responsibility: It emphasizes personal responsibility for one's actions. Individuals must be aware that every action they take has potential consequences.
   • Long-term Impact: The effects of one's actions may not be immediate but can manifest over time, affecting various aspects of life such as relationships, career, and personal well-being.
   • Example: Consider a professional scenario where an employee consistently works hard, shows integrity, and helps colleagues. Over time, this behavior not only earns them respect and trust but also leads to career advancement and personal satisfaction. Conversely, an employee involved in deceptive practices might initially succeed, but eventually, these actions could lead to loss of trust, professional setbacks, or even legal consequences.
2. Law of Creation (Karma Srishti):
   • Principle: This law suggests that we are the architects of our own lives. Rather than being passive recipients of fate, individuals have the power to shape their destiny through their choices and actions.
   • Proactivity and Effort: It encourages proactive effort and participation in life. It’s about creating opportunities rather than waiting for them.
   • Mindset and Attitude: This law also focuses on the power of mindset and attitude. Positive thinking and a constructive attitude can lead to beneficial outcomes, whereas negativity can result in adverse situations.
   • Example: In the context of entrepreneurship, a person who starts with a small idea and invests time, creativity, and dedication can build a successful business. This success is a direct result of their efforts and positive mindset. On the other hand, someone who blames external circumstances for their lack of success and doesn’t take initiative is likely to remain stagnant.

Q4

(a) Briefly describe the normative theory of business ethics.

Normative Theory of Business Ethics

• Definition: Normative theories of business ethics focus on how businesses ought to act based on moral guidelines.
• Moral Principles: These theories provide a framework for businesses to determine right from wrong, using ethical principles such as justice, rights, and consequences.
• Guidance for Decision-Making: They offer guidance in making ethical decisions, ensuring that business practices align with moral values.

(b) Briefly elaborate below statements in context to why they cannot be considered business ethics:

i. Ethics is different from religion:

• Distinct Foundations: Ethics are based on moral principles applicable to everyone, regardless of religious beliefs, whereas religion is based on specific spiritual beliefs and practices.
• Universality vs. Specificity: Ethical standards in business aim to be universal, transcending religious doctrines which can be specific to cultures or groups.

ii. Ethical Standards are different from cultural traits.

• Objective vs. Subjective: Ethical standards in business strive for objectivity and are often established by broader societal consensus, whereas cultural traits are subjective and vary widely across different societies.
• Consistency vs. Variability: Business ethics seek consistency in ethical practices regardless of cultural backgrounds, while cultural traits can lead to different interpretations and practices of ethics.

(c) Explain Kohlberg’s Model of Cognitive Moral Development in brief

1. Pre-conventional Level:
   • Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment Orientation: Behavior driven by avoiding punishment.
   • Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange: Recognizing individual interests and the concept of fairness.
2. Conventional Level:
   • Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships: Behavior driven by social approval and maintaining relationships.
   • Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order: Upholding laws, authority, and social order.
3. Post-conventional Level:
   • Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights: Awareness of varying values and opinions; upholding rights, values, and legal contracts.
   • Stage 6: Universal Principles: Guided by internal moral principles, which may or may not align with society's laws.

Kohlberg's model suggests that moral reasoning develops through these stages as individuals mature. It implies that higher stages of moral development lead to more ethical decisions in professional and personal contexts.

OR

Q.4 (a) Elaborate your views over the Gandhian principles of trusteeship in context to business ethics

Gandhian Principles of Trusteeship in Business Ethics

• Shared Wealth: Gandhian trusteeship promotes the idea that wealth should be seen as a trust from society, to be used for the welfare of all, not just personal gain.
• Social Responsibility: Businesses have a responsibility to contribute to society, ensuring their operations benefit the community.
• Moral Leadership: Encourages business leaders to act as trustees, prioritizing ethical practices and sustainability over exploitation and profiteering.

(b) Enlist roots of unethical behavior and the factors that contribute the employees to think in an unethical manner.

Roots of Unethical Behavior and Contributing Factors

1. Greed and Self-Interest: Prioritizing personal gain over ethical conduct.
2. Pressure to Meet Targets: Short-term targets leading to compromise on ethics.
3. Organizational Culture: A culture that implicitly condones or overlooks unethical practices.
4. Lack of Ethical Leadership: Leaders failing to set a moral example.
5. Fear of Repercussions: Fear of negative consequences for reporting unethical behavior.
6. Lack of Awareness: Inadequate understanding of what constitutes ethical behavior.

(c) Neelam is working as senior HR manager at Zion IT company. Mention the code of personal ethics she needs to possess as an employee of the organization

Code of Personal Ethics for Neelam:

1. Confidentiality: Protecting the privacy of employee information.
2. Fairness and Impartiality: Treating all employees equally, without bias.
3. Integrity: Being honest and transparent in all HR practices.
4. Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in all job-related activities.
5. Respect for Individuals: Valuing the dignity and rights of all employees.
6. Compliance with Laws and Policies: Adhering to legal standards and company policies.
7. Conflict of Interest Avoidance: Avoiding situations where personal interests conflict with professional duties.
8. Open Communication: Encouraging and practicing open and honest communication.
9. Continual Learning: Staying updated with HR practices and ethical guidelines.
10. Empathy and Supportiveness: Being understanding and supportive of employee issues and concerns.

Q5

(a) Enlist main pillars of character for any ethical decision maker.

1. Integrity: Adhering to moral and ethical principles consistently.
2. Honesty: Being truthful and transparent in all actions and communications.
3. Respect: Treating others with dignity and consideration.
4. Responsibility: Accepting and being accountable for one's decisions and actions.

(b) Distinguish between personal and business ethics by providing appropriate example.

• Personal Ethics:
  • Nature: Guided by individual values and principles.
  • Example: Choosing not to lie in personal interactions based on a personal belief in honesty.
• Business Ethics:
  • Nature: Governed by formal codes and professional standards.
  • Example: A company adhering to fair labor practices despite the opportunity to increase profits through exploitation.
• Differences:
  • Personal ethics are individual and internally motivated, while business ethics are collectively defined and externally enforced.
  • In personal ethics, individual conscience is the guide, whereas in business ethics, legal and professional norms often dictate the ethical framework.

(c) Define white-collar crime (WCC). Enlist few of the most whitecollar offenses observed in recent times. Mention the penalties for WCC’s.

• Definition: WCC refers to financially motivated, non-violent crime committed by business and government professionals.
• Common Offenses:
  • Embezzlement: Misappropriation of funds entrusted to one's care.
  • Fraud: Deception for personal or corporate gain.
  • Insider Trading: Using confidential information for stock market trading.
  • Tax Evasion: Illegally avoiding paying taxes.
  • Money Laundering: Concealing the origins of illegally obtained money.
  • Identity Theft: Stealing someone's personal information for financial gain.
  • Cybercrime: Crimes committed using computers or the internet.
• Penalties:
  • Fines: Heavy monetary fines, often proportional to the amount involved in the crime.
  • Imprisonment: Jail terms, which can vary in length depending on the severity of the crime.
  • Restitution: Compensating victims for their losses.
  • Community Service: Mandatory service in the community.
  • Probation: A period of supervision over an offender, instead of imprisonment.
  • Career Consequences: Loss of professional licenses, employment termination, and damage to reputation.

OR

Q.5 (a) In recent times, education system has adopted a concept of tutorship wherein passed out students or seniors tutor their juniors. Provide your views by correlating it with ancient indian education system.

Tutorship in Modern Education vs. Ancient Indian Education System

• Mentorship Tradition: The modern concept of tutorship, where seniors guide juniors, resembles the ancient Indian Guru-Shishya (teacher-student) tradition, fostering a personalized and holistic learning environment.
• Knowledge Transmission: Similar to ancient practices, this system promotes the passing of knowledge and values from experienced to newer members.
• Community Learning: Both systems encourage a sense of community and collective responsibility in education, enhancing collaborative learning and mutual respect.

(b) Justify: “Integrity and Transparency are the touchstones of

Business Ethics”.

Integrity and Transparency in Business Ethics

• Foundation of Trust: Integrity builds trust among stakeholders (customers, employees, investors), essential for sustainable business relationships.
• Enhancing Credibility: Transparency in operations and decision-making enhances a company's credibility and reputation.
• Risk Mitigation: Integrity and transparency help in identifying and mitigating ethical risks, preventing scandals and legal issues.
• Stakeholder Confidence: These values ensure that stakeholders have confidence in the business, crucial for long-term success and stakeholder satisfaction.

(c) Briefly describe the ethical models that guides decision making.

Ethical Models for Decision Making

1. Utilitarian Model: Focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number. Decisions are made based on the outcome that provides the maximum benefit to the most people.
2. Rights-Based Model: Emphasizes respecting and protecting individual rights. Decisions are guided by the effect on the rights of all involved.
3. Justice Model: Concentrates on fairness and equity. This model advocates for decisions that ensure fair treatment and distribution of benefits and burdens.
4. Common Good Model: Stresses the importance of the community and societal well-being. Decisions are made considering the community's interests and values.
5. Virtue Ethics Model: Based on the character and virtues of the decision-maker. It emphasizes moral character and the cultivation of virtues like honesty, courage, and compassion in decision-making.
6. Integrative Model: Combines various ethical perspectives to provide a comprehensive approach to decision-making. This model encourages considering multiple aspects, including consequences, rights, justice, and virtues.
7. Ethical Relativism Model: Suggests that ethical decisions depend on the cultural, social, and individual contexts. This model encourages understanding and considering various perspectives and cultural norms in decision-making.